“We like to start with the flower girls and go through the whole bridal party - that way the audience can actually see the whole look together.”

Vaughan recently began selling a new French Canadian line, Lis Simon, at her shop. “It’s very clean, with lots of drama at the bottom of the dress,” she says. Overall, styles are simple and classic, a trend that began a few years ago. “There’s not a lot of beading, and the silhouettes are fitted. About 90 percent of the gowns are strapless; it’s a look that will always be big.”

The dresses may be simple and sleek, but the right accessory can give a bridal gown that special wow factor, says Vaughan. Sashes are big, with a pop of color. Ribbon designer Colleen Bankovich will debut some “cool, funky new headpieces” at the runway show, Vaughan adds. “More and more people are opting for two headpieces - a veil for the wedding, and then a headband or flowers to keep on at the reception.”

Vaughan will also show off the latest in bridesmaids’ dresses at the runway show. “Matchy-matchy is out,” she says. “Now, designers will make the same basic style of dress with different bodices to accommodate different body types.” Popular colors come and go; black and white for the bridal party was very popular for years, but recently Vaughan is seeing more bridesmaids in white or ivory.

Arlette’s Bride & Formal will also be on hand, featuring owner ArletteKronk’s made-to-order dresses. “I’ll have between six and 10 gowns there, just so people can see what I do,” says the Monaca dressmaker. “The dresses are all one-of-a-kind; I make exactly what the bride wants.”

Kronk agrees that the simple, classic look is back in a big way. “It’s not very trendy, and that’s good. Twenty years down the line, you don’t want to look at your wedding photos and say, ‘What was I thinking?’ The older brides especially are very conscious of the fact that the plainer your dress, the prettier you look - you don’t need a lot of hoopla. A little bit of color or bling - a sash, a belt, a veil - can give your dress that ‘Aha!’”

Tulles, taffeta, and heavy satins are still the most popular fabrics for wedding gowns, she says. Pure white dresses are less popular these days, with brides favoring a more flattering candlelight or light champagne color.

Kronk will be happy to talk with future brides about her work at the show. “They should start at least eight months ahead, just like they would do with any other dress,” she says. And even if you have your dream dress in mind, go to a bridal shop and try on some samples, she adds: “You really need to see a dress on to determine if you like the style, and if it’s the best cut for you.”

Another highlight of the Bridal Fair runway show will be the American Commodore Tuxedo dancers, showing off the latest in formal menswear trends and adding their own special flair to the event.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.